Inklingo

How to Say "adhesive" in Spanish

English → Spanish

pega

PEH-gahˈpe.ɣa

nounA2general term
Use 'pega' for everyday situations when you need a general adhesive, like for crafts or minor household repairs, especially in informal contexts.
A simple, open bottle of white liquid adhesive glue, with a large drop hanging from the nozzle, ready to fall.

Examples

Se me rompió la taza, ¿tienes un poco de pega?

My mug broke, do you have some glue?

Esta pega es muy fuerte y seca rápido.

This adhesive is very strong and dries quickly.

Feminine Noun

Remember that 'pega' is feminine, so you always use 'la pega' or 'una pega'.

pegamento

peh-gah-MEN-tohpeɣaˈmento

nounA1technical or formal term for glue
Opt for 'pegamento' when referring to glue in a more technical or formal capacity, such as in a hardware store, a workshop setting, or when discussing specific types of adhesives.
A white glue bottle with an orange cap standing upright on a wooden table.

Examples

Necesito un poco de pegamento para arreglar este juguete.

I need some glue to fix this toy.

El niño usa pegamento en barra para su tarea de arte.

The boy uses a glue stick for his art homework.

Este pegamento es extra fuerte y seca muy rápido.

This glue is extra strong and dries very fast.

Masculine Gender

The word is masculine, so always use 'el' or 'un' with it (el pegamento).

Making it Plural

To talk about different types of glue, just add an 's' at the end: 'los pegamentos'.

Glue as a Verb

Mistake: “Yo pegamento el papel.”

Correction: Yo pego el papel. (In Spanish, 'pegamento' is only the noun; the verb for 'to glue' or 'to stick' is 'pegar').

Choosing Between 'Pega' and 'Pegamento'

The most common mistake learners make is using 'pega' in formal or technical contexts where 'pegamento' would be more appropriate. While 'pega' is understood, 'pegamento' often sounds more precise and professional when discussing glues in specific applications.

Related Translations

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